2.007 (spring 2000)

So far, I'm just going to throw whatever material I have for problem set requirements. I'll try to fill it up with content when I get the time, or when I'll be assigned to do it. To find out more about this years competition, go to the class webpage .

Pictures on left are cardboard models of the strategy I seem to like best. The round cylindrical part is one that spins on an axel. It has an opening such that it can surround the objects, then spin and collect the objects inside its body. There is a hole/slot on the back so the objects can be easily released. This is the main collection method. I have yet to think of a defensive strategy. I plan on using treads, as can be seen by the structure covered with black tape.

These pictures are taken with a digital video camera. I don't have a digital camera, but I do have one of those small video cameras that people use for video conferencing and such. The video cameras are not as ideal for taking still shots as normal cameras, and you can tell by the fuzziness in these pictures. The solid models are done in SolidWorks from my own PC. I figured walking to the mech-e cluster just to solid model was not worth the time, though the 21" Trinitrons are very nice. Well, on my own PC I can telnet "securely," ICQ, AIM, listen to MP3's, etc. and my 19" Radius L-1 is not too shabby.

Problem Set #1 - There is no point in putting this problem set up because it was done on the original setup. Thus, the fundamental requirements, design parameters, etc. are not very relevant.
Problem Set #2 - Scans of four strategies. This are the four designs being referenced in problem set #3. Also some cardboard models for this problem set.
Problem Set #3 - Some really messy calculations were made. Stresses/strains, torsional stiffness of rods, cantilever beams under force at one end, and other 2.002 goodies filled the sheets.
Problem Set #4 - Final hand drawings were done. Some new ideas, including a small additional "pest" robot.
Problem Set #5 - First solid model of machine done.
Problem Set #6 - More solid modelling of the machine. More specific on material budgets.
Construction - We have stopped doing problem sets. The building has begun. I have had many problems during this stage. First I had to resize my model to satisfy the size constraints. I first started using ABS on the sides, and decided to switch over to lexan for more strength and better looks. Then April 25, Professor Flowers found a lot of flaws with my drive mechanism. This has meant 15+ hours a week in machine shop.
Done - So this is it. I must say I am disappointed in its performance. It looks the way I had planned, but doesn't quite behave the way I had expected. Luck be with me.
Competition - These are pictures taken during the first round. David Gandy was my driver, and an awesome might I add. We, or he, managed to get the asteroid and rack up with 5.6 lbs. I didn't use the spinner as I had planned, but I'm sure it wouldn't have beat 5.6 lbs. Unfortunately, I was disqualified due to size and could not advance.
Reflection - The final 2.007 assigment. A short blurb on the things I learned, my (dis)satisfaction with my machine, and how I would have managed this project differntly.